Being struck by a truck can be devastating. It often involves painful injuries, medical expenses, lost income and future uncertainty. If you or your loved one has been injured in a truck accident, it is important to understand your legal options and how to seek compensation for your pain and suffering. At MacGillis Law Group, LLC we support truck accident victims across Milwaukee with our legal expertise. This guide explains the legal process after being hit by a truck and how to protect yourself.
What are the Common Causes of Truck Accidents?
Truck accidents are different from car accidents. This is because they operate under different conditions and pressure than a passenger vehicle. Long driving hours, hectic delivery schedules and the size of the vehicle increase the risk.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents
At MacGillis Law Group, LLC, our Milwaukee truck accident lawyer have represented many families and individuals injured in truck accidents. Some of the common causes of truck accidents are:
- Driver fatigue & long driving hours
- Inadequate driving experience
- Violation of the number of service hours
- Distracted driving
- Tight delivery schedules that force unsafe driving
- Overloads or insecure load
Legal Process After Being Hit by a Truck Accident: What to Do After an Accident
1 Get Immediate Medical Treatment
The first thing to do after any accident is to get medical attention. Even if you feel completely fine, it is best to get checked as internal injuries appear later on. Also medical records serve as important evidence to support your claim.
2. File a Report
Always contact law enforcement if you have been involved in any accident. A police report acts as a critical piece of evidence. Police officers will document the accident, collect witness statements and determine fault. At your part, if you can collect information on the scene, take photos of the accient scene, the damage, collect witness contacts and truck drivers details.
3. Hire a Personal Injury Attorney
A truck accident might be more complicated than a car accident. Multiple parties may be held liable. This includes the truct driver, the trucking company, truck manufacturer and third-part logistic company. A Milwaukee personal injury attorney identifies the parties at fault and helps you navigate the legal process.
4. Investigating & Collecting Evidence
After getting a lawyer on board, the attorney will begin the investigation. This includes:
- Evaluating the accident report
- Collecting the black box information from the truck
- Checking driving logs
- Gather surveillance footage
- Interviewing witnesses
5. Filling a Claim
After evaluating evidence and investigation, the attorney files a claim with the involved insurance companies or go ahead with a lawsuit. The claims typically cover medical expenses (current & future), pain & suffering, property damage, lost income, rehabilitation costs and loss of ability to earn a living.
6. Negotiation & Settlement
Many times, trucking companies and insurance companies go for out-of-court settlements. This where an attorney negotiates and demands for a full and fair compensation. They handle all communications with the insurance companies, protect your interests and ensure you receive compensation you deserve for your damages.
7. Litigation & Trial If Needed
If a settlement cannot be reached, the case is processed to trial. The trial can take months or sometimes even weeks. This is when the injuries are serious or in case of disputed liability.
Get in Touch with MacGillis Law Group, LLC
Getting struck by a truck can leave long-term consequences. The legal process can be complex, but with a dedicated personal injury lawyer, you can seek the compensation you deserve. At MacGillis Law Group, LLC, we represent victims of serious and life-altering injuries, including truck accidents. If you or your loved one has been injured in a truck accident, get your case reviewed for free. Let us protect you.
